Demand for Tropical Hardwood is Projected to Rise

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According to industry analysts, the residential market for tropical hardwood decking will account for the vast majority of a 7.0 percent growth in imported hardwoods. More homeowners are selecting tropical hardwoods such as such as Ipe, Tigerwood, Cumaru, Garapa and Massaranduba because of their long term durability, fungal and insect resistance, and imperviousness to damage caused by moisture. They also value the fact that decks made from tropical lumber require much less maintenance than other wood types.

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Common Ipe Decking Problems

What to Expect When Working with Ipe

No material comes without its share of challenges, and Ipe is no exception. This includes drilling, cutting, and price. Addressing these problems individually will help you understand why they arise and how you can solve them

Predrilling is an important step when it comes to fastening hardwoods.
Predrilling is an important step when it comes to fastening hardwoods.

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How To Build Better Stairs for Your Deck

Turn your stairway into an accent piece instead of a necessary structure.
Turn your stairway into an accent piece instead of just a necessary structure.

Stair building is an art form of its own. The perfect set of stairs makes a comfortable transition between areas. How often have you been on a deck where the stairs were too narrow, too long, or they just looked odd? Stairs need to be properly built for comfort, safety, and appearance. Remember, every deck is different, and building the correct set of stairs for your particular project enhances the appearance and creates safety for your guests.

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Is Cumaru the New Ipe?

Cumaru isn’t exactly the new kid on the block in the exotic decking neighborhood, but it has recently become the choice of wood for many designers, architects, and contractors. Its versatility, color, and similarity to Ipe has allowed Cumaru to be used for residential and commercial applications. Cumaru is very comparable to Ipe, differing by …

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Brazilian Hardwood Decking

Natural beauty and elegance should not be limited to the indoors only. We believe comfort and beauty should be extended outdoors to create an escape from daily life. Our lumber is used by architects for commercial and residential projects because of its beauty and incredible durability.

This gorgeous ipe and Garapa deck will last for year with no chemical treatment.
This gorgeous Ipe and Garapa deck will last for years with no chemical treatment.

Hardwoods: Beauty in Every Board

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The Environment and Your Decking

AdvantageLumber.com is committed to responsible forestry.
AdvantageLumber.com is committed to responsible forestry.

Preserving the rainforest is a concern shared by companies, countries, and individuals all over the world. The rainforests are a unique niche in which an abundant array of species live and thrive. Not only is the rainforest a habitat for animals and wildlife, but it also provides an abundant amount of oxygen to our atmosphere. Unfortunately, because of economic and political pressures, ecological priorities are often pushed aside.

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Gazebo vs. Pergola

Gazebos and pergolas have been around for hundreds of years. Both pergolas and gazebos give decks and backyards a new perspective that is pleasing to the eye and practical.

This gazebo, made out of Ipe, is a gorgeous addition to this home.
This gazebo, made out of Ipe, is a gorgeous addition to this home.

Gazebos are covered areas, usually hexagonal in shape, that offer a complete roof and closed off surroundings. Gazebos at one point were thought of as summerhouses or pavilions. Their privacy and distance from the main home allows them to have an aura of being a home away from home.

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